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  • SHIKANTAZA | Budokan World

    SHIKANTAZA An aide memoire Shikantaza (just simply sitting) is objectless meditation, in which the practitioner uses the power developed in concentration to remain in a state of conscious awareness. There are a variety of different views on what sikantaza actially means. Some say shikantaza is described best as, "quiet sitting in open awareness, reflecting directly on the reality of life". Shikantaza is often termed a goalless meditation in quiet awareness, not working on any koan, or counting the breath. It is an alert condition, performed erect, with no trace of sluggishness or drowsiness. Som scholars have said that shi means tranquility, kan refers to awareness, ta means hitting exactly the right spot and za means to sit. For me it all comes down to "j ust simply sitting still in tranquil awareness ". Zen - meaning meditation - changes your spirit by reflection. What follows is a short travelogue of nudges, reminders and observations to help you on the road to the Shikantaza experience. On the left hand side you will see some figures in bold . These figures should be used as a rough guide to the aproximate times that should have lapsed during your preparation and each section of your parctice. The first figure is for less experienced maditators. The second figure is for experienced meditators. Everybody is different and you will find out what suits you from your own experience. After you have sat down and become aware that you are upright and comfortable - from that moment prepare yourself - it varies with each individual. Close your eyes lightly - and keep them closed for the entire "zesshin". Breathe from the lower abdomen - so it becomes "abdominal respiration". It also called diaphragmatic respiration. Do not use your upper chest for breathing and keep your shoulders level and relaxed. Place your tongue lightly on the roof of your mouth and try to keep it there. You can't easily breathe in via the mouth if the tongue is in this position for long. You must breathe in and out through the nose. Slowly breathe in through your nose to say 5 seconds. Slowly breathe out through your nose for say 7 seconds Where the CO2 exhaled from your lungs is greater than the oxygen you breathed in. Keep just this going for a while and establish a rhythm of diaphragmatic breathing which reaches an equilibrium of around 5 or 6 seconds and 5 or 6 seconds out. Interestingly, this has historical precedent in religious practices where 6 seconds is exactly the time it takes to accomplish certain Buddhist mantra's and it is also found the same exhalation is used whilst citing the Christian Rosary. ..................................................Now become AWARE. On a wide range of levels. Your stillness is critical so - DO NOT MOVE UNLESS YOU HAVE TO. From below the belt you are absolutely rooted to the spot you are sitting on. No movement there. Your heartbeat - feel it - really feel it. Your body is still and your muscles have nothing to do - so they soften. And soften they do as you take in more oxygen into your blood through the established rhythm of your breathing. As the muscles soften your joints begin to open. There is the rhythm of your lower abdominal nuscles. In the stomach area the Japanese call the Hara. And there you will find what is called the Tanden. The single spot in the lower abdomen - about an inch or so directly below your navel. It is your centre of gravity. As you breathe in - they expand out - not too much. As you breathe out - they contract - just a little more. Maintain the rhythm. Slowly and imperceptibly, your muscles have softened to the point where you have become aware of it and you have to micro manage your posture from time to time in 4 tiny movements. 1 Most peoples heads move a little forward, so every now and then you need to move your head back to the midline of your shoulders and tuck your chin in just a little at the same time. 2 Raise your ribcage - this is the area where most people begin to stoop from. 3 This will lead you to gently make your lumbar vertebrae a little more concave. 4 Allow both shoulders to drop evenly. You will need to continue to make micro adjustments to your posture, (as above) as it naturally changes and you become used to feeling it necessary to do so. Its not a thought process - its just a feeling. And it usually ends up being a lot more comfortable. So keep doing it please. Maintain your breathing ryhthm. And become aware of your senses. Move your attention to your eyes and slowly roll them a little. From there flare your nose a few times as you breathe in. Push your tongue gently up to the roof of your mouth. Become aware of your hearing. Move your fingers a little for touch. And now you sense of being.....here.....now.... Turn your awareness onto your brain. That houses the mind. The best difference between the two I have read is "The brain is indeed the physical structure. Neurons, axons, dendrites, neurotransmitters, synapses, discrete structures… All that and more. The “mind” (consciousness) is the “emergent property” of the activity of that brain". Quora Past , present and future thoughts - pop in and out all the time - as has already been happening to you. Let them come and go. Learn how to get back to your awarenes of what you are doing in the present. Let the past go and do not look to the future - always stay in the present - it is not easy but comes with practice. And the flow of thoughts will begin to slow down as they should have by now. By raising or slowing our brainwaves, we can altar how we think, feel and act. Meditation is the process of slowing our alerting beta brainwaves to the slower states of alpha and theta. Beta is the waking, thinking state. It is our normal state of mind in which we are the highly alert. Alpha is a slower state more indicative of relaxing and reflecting. Meditation is often practiced in the alpha state. Theta is an even slower state perfect for daydreaming and intuitive thinking. Deep meditation and prayer are practiced in the theta state. Delta is the slowest of the four states where sleep occurs. At the slowest delta level, sleep is deep and dreamless. Neuroimaging studies suggest that the normal resting state of the brain is a silent current of thoughts, images and memories that is not induced by sensory input or intentional reasoning, but emerges spontaneously "from within." This is what the Zen Buddhists from the Soto sect refer to as “silent illumination”. And that is what actually happens - as feelings come before thoughts. But here in this stillness of the body, the rhythm of the breath opens the way to a deep, visceral awareness. It is much like Metsuke - a much heightened form of conscious awareness than Zanshin when training in Budo, along with the physical manifestation of Kime when doing any Kata. The head, heart and soul of it all. Our thoughts, our desires and our experiences. It is the awareness of awarenesses. And it is here that you have to work hard at sliencing your inner monologue from trying to analyse or comment on what you see and experience. It is the point when your subjective experiences becomes objective observation. It is where subjective and objective meet. Which ever so slowly over time begins to evolve into a clearer perception of the world inside your head and the real world out there. Images appear and disappear in a kaleidoscope of colour. Some are quite quick and slow to disappear. Some just slowly emerge into recognisable images. Many are landscapes and vistas that are new to you. Some are people and faces you have never seen before. You can't hold on to them for longer than a few seconds - most try to and fail. Swirling cloud-like images float around and past you. Giving you an impression of movement. Slowly you reach a deep state of absolute stilness and silence. It is often referred to as the "void". It is as if you are at the edge of space. You are in awe for what you think is an eternity. .../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../.................. Einstein said "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious; It is the source of all true art and science". How you emerge from this experience depends on the environment you are in. Always try to do so slowly if you can. Keeping your eyes closed for a few minutes more. Tuck your chin in to your chest - round your shoulders and your spine and gently stretch forward, as far as you comfortably can and hold for a minute. Sit up slowly and rotate your shoulders both ways by moving your arms. Move your head up and down slowly. And then to the left and the right. Sit still and upright for a moment with youe eyes open. Feel the moment. Lao Tzu said "Meditation is vital energy". And I do generally feel vitalised and full of energy in the immediate hours thereafter. But for me the chief consequence of doing 45 minutes or an hour of Shikantaza first thing in the morning, is the beautiful feeling of having tapped into my inuitive self aong with a sense of clarity that remains present with me for the rest of my day. Well, almost. It is not easy to practice Shikantaza every day - but the benefits are supreme. Each and every day thereafter. David Passmore Kyoshi At the beginning of 2021 DRAW A VEIL OVER THE FUTURE. LET GO OF THE PAST. EMBRACE THE PRESENT. 5-10

  • BUDOKAN ARUNDEL | Budokan World

    88 Balham Road, Yapton Arundel West Sussex BN18 0JY BEGINNERS AND VISITORS WELCOME MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION GRADINGS CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT DARREN'S BIO Darren began the study of Traditional Aikido on Thursday 13th June 1991 as a member of the Tokushima Budo Council International. The TBCI was set up as for the preservation of the philosophical and spiritualistic concepts of the Classical Arts of Japan by Kenshiro Abbe (15 December 1915 – 1 December 1985). During his time with the TBCI Darren trained with multiple teachers around the UK include Saito Morihiro & Pat Hendricks. It wasn't until 1995 he met Kyoshi Passmore that he first experienced iaido and karate at various Budokan events and he began training in iaido under Kyoshi Ansell in 1996. Darren continues to enjoy training train with both, with the latter under the auspices of British Kendo Association where he has been selected to represent the UK at multiple European Iaido Championships. Joining the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in 1996 Darren had the privilege to attend the first 3 World World Butoku Sais in Norfolk Virginia (1998) and at the Butokuden in Kyoto, Japan in 2002 and 2008. These were led by the then Deputy Sosai, Jiko Higashifushimi, a cousin to Emperor Akihito. Apart from these events he has attended many European Butoku Sais and Rensei Taikais with the DNBK. At these events that Darren has had the opportunity to practice other arts such as DaitoRyu AikiJujutsu, Kendo, Judo, Naginata, Jojutsu, Sojutsu & Jujutsu. Apart from the Dai Nippon Butokukai events Darren has attended various Budo seminars within the UK as well as Belgium, France, Netherlands, Germany, USA and Greece. ARUNDEL DOJO Classes are held in a vibrant atmosphere where students benefit from some of the highest quality tuition available in the UK today. Disciplines KARATE - SHUKUKAI RYU AIKIDO - TRADITIONAL IAIDO - MUSOSHINDEN RYU ZEN - SOTO Chief Instructor DAVID PASSMORE 7 DAN KYOSHI Dojo Leaders DARREN WAGHORNE 6 DAN darrenwaghorne@yahoo.co.uk DAVID GOLDING 5 DAN catekize@msn.com CONGRATULATIONS TO DARREN ON HIS 4TH DAN WITH THE BKA On Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd May the British Kendo Association held their annual West Midlands Iaido seminar with a grading upto Yondan on the last afternoon. Being the first West Midlands seminar after lockdown it was a full house of 60 students led by Fay Goodman Sensei, Nanadan Kyoshi. Assisting her were 3 Rokudans all holding the Renshi title which included the current BKA Squad coach. On the first day the seminar was split in to 4 grade groups with a Sensei working with each group for 3 techniques before moving on to another group. This allowed all of the 12 Seitei-gata, including the specific Chakugan-ten (grading points) for each kata, to be covered by the 4 teachers. The second day the groups were the same but this time the teacher stayed with that group only. I was fortunate to have Fay Goodman Sensei. This time the practice was concentrate on the reiho and our grading katas which were notified to us prior to the start of the day. For Yondan this was 1 free choice of Koryu which I chose Shohatto and 4 Shitei waza (complusary techniques) of Ushiro, Sanpogiri, Ganmenate and Sougiri. The shitei waza are chosen by the Sensei on the course and they are different for each grade and seminar though occassionally they overlap. Anyone attempting Shodan and above much complete a written grading paper which consisting of 6 questions. This paper needs to be submitted in advance of the seminar and passed before you can sit the "physical" shinza (grading). The "physical" shinza part is also known as Jitsugi or practical skill. For an attemp of Yondan there needs to be 6 shinza-in (grading panelists) of Rokudan and above and you require least 4 votes from the panel to pass. The 4 teachers of the course and another Nanadan Kyoshi & Rokudan Renshi attended to make up the panelists. The grading took place in grade order, from the lowest grade to the highest. This meant I was last on! It not just the waiting for your grading it is also the wait after whilst the grading officer reviews the panelists notes to determine who has passed or failed. I hate waiting! Subtle celebrations ensued after the posting of the results and a lot of handshakes and well dones. For me it didn't end there. I spoke to all the garding panelists to gain feedback on my grading to help me improve going orward.

  • THE FORGOTTEN LINEAGE | Budokan World

    A LINEAGE ALL BUT FORGOTTEN SHINSEI DOJO Special Thanks to: Richard Stonell . The Yushinkan (Nakayama Hakudo) NAKAYAMA HAKUDO Hakudo demonstrates proper kiriotoshi Hakudo demonstrating proper striking Takano Sasaburo (left) and Nakayama Hakudo (right) during andemonstration of the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata at Noma Dojo Hakudo in bogu while in seiza Hakudo was now renowned around Japan for his skill, however this was not enough for him. He traveled across Japan to study various arts like: Itto Shoden Muto Ryu, Ono ha Itto Ryu, Hokushin Itto Ryu, (Toda) Buko Ryu, Nen Ryu, Shinkage Ryu, Musashi Enmei Ryu, Jigen Ryu, Ichiden Ryu, and Ooki-Isshin Ryu. In his search he found two ryu or schools that would effectively change his life forever, Shinto Muso Ryu () and Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu In 1912 Hakudo began training in Shinto Muso Ryu Jojutsu and calligraphy under Uchida Ryogoro at Shiba Park, Tokyo and with Takeda Kohachi at his residence in Kyobashi, Tokyo. He trained very hard, finding his study of the jo to be among the most valuable of his pursuits. Hakudo wrote: “As a youth I was taught Shinto Muso Ryu by Shihan, Uchida Ryogoro. It was because of this training that I came to understand the Ura or inner methodologies of Kendo. I learned the ins and outs of handling the jo, manipulation of the feet, body mechanics, and other (fundamentals). Even in my Kendo practice I was able (utilize and) cultivate these (Jo) techniques. Thanks to this (integrated) practice I learned a lot. (In the world of martial arts) there are no kata as thoroughly developed as Shinto Muso Ryu Jojutsu’s. I believe Shinto Muso Ryu jojutsu is a national treasure.” In 1916 Hakudo was introduced to Tosa Eishin Ryu by Itagaki Taisuke (a famous Meiji statesmen and a student of Oe Masamichi). Hakudo had learned Iai before in Shindo Munen Ryu, but felt something was missing. He initially approached Oe Masamichi about training, but was rejected. Taisuke saw Hakudo’s resolve to learn the style, however and introduced Hakudo to Hosokawa Yoshimasa of the Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu school (aka. Shinmomura Ha Hasegawa Eishin Ryu) and Morimoto Tokumi of the Goto Ha Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu school (aka. Tanimura Ha Hasegawa Eishin Ryu). Hakudo was accepted as a student of both teachers, making him the first outsider to learn Tosa Eishin Ryu in history. Hakudo trained earnestly and in 1920 the Nippon Butokukai awarded Hakudo the title of Hanshi in both Kendo and Iaido. Around this time Hakudo was said to have received Menkyo Kaiden in jojutsu from Uchida Ryogoro prior to his death in 1921 (though this is greatly debated). After receiving his certification Hakudo did something unexpected: he took what he learned and created his own version of Shinto Muso Ryu, commonly referred to as Nakayama-no-Jo, along with a set of five kihon (basic drills). Shimizu Takaji was said to have later incorporated Hakudo’s five kihon into his set of twelve some years later. In 1922 Hakudo was awarded Menkyo Kaiden in Goto Ha Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu from Tokumi and Menkyo in Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu from Yoshimasa. Contrary to popular belief, however Hakudo did not recieve Menkyo Kaiden from Yoshimasa. Hakudo continued to visit both Yoshimasa and Tokumi in Kochi. During his time there Hakudo trained with Yoshimasa at his house. He maintained a very good relationship with Yoshimasa until his death in 1923. In 1925 Hakudo was asked by the head fencing instructor of the Rikugun Toyama Academy (a military academy) to assist him in creating a system of Gunto Soho ( ) or methods of manipulating military swords. Hakudo, through his research developed five standing iai kata that made the foundation of the Toyama Ryu Guntojutsu system. In the same year Hakudo supported Noma Seiji in the construction and development of the famed Noma dojo. Noma Dojo became a vessel for men and women of various ryu-ha or schools to test their skills and exchange their ideas with other kenshi. In 1927 at the age of fifty-five he received the rank of Hanshi in Jodo from the Nippon Butokukai. In 1930 Hakudo was called on by the Butokukai to demonstrate Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu publicly (outside of Kochi) for the first time in history. Hakudo had a problem though: he never recieved Menkyo Kaiden in the system. As such, during the demonstration he presented the art as ”Muso Shinden Ryu Battojutsu” (). This was done to avoid any altercations that might come from him using the school’s name. In 1933 Hakudo restructured what he learned in Kochi into Muso Shinden Ryu () using the Chinese characters for dream or vision. The Yushinkan once a training hall exclusively for Shindo Munen Ryu and Gekiken under Negishi Shingoro; became a dojo for several martial arts. Students of the Yushinkan (under Hakudo) were selected to learn specific styles. Men like Nakayama Zendo and Hashimoto Toyo learned everything while others like Nakakura Kiyoshi, Danzaki Tomoaki and Nakajima Gozoro learned only Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido and Kendo. In his time Hakudo had seen the death of stylized Gekiken and the birth of modern Kendo. In 1934 he and his contemporary Takano Sasaburo demonstrated the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata at the Tenranjiai while Emperor Hirohito watched on. Both Hakudo and Takano were highly commended for their performances. Kendo gained popularity and Hakudo along with Takano Sasaburo became among (if not) the most requested teachers in Japan. They traveled the country teaching at universities, police stations, military bases, Japanese Government installations, and even the Imperial Palace. Hakudo’s students ran into the tens of thousands. In fact over two thirds of those who held the rank of kyoshi with the Nippon Butokukai had studied with Hakudo to some effect. World War II was a desperate time for Japan. The proud Japanese Military was being pushed back by Allied Forces. Japan had now become a target to American firebombing. Japanese buildings largely made of wood and built in close proximity to other residences became mere kindle for Allied bombs. Tokyo and other cities were decimated. This accompanied by the destruction Hiroshima and Nagasaki via Atomic Weapons brought about Japan’s formal surrender on September 2nd, 1945. Hakudo was quick to use his influence, using the Japanese idiom “a samurai never talks (bad mouths) about what is finished” Hakudo asked people to meet their American occupiers with dignity. “In fencing we call ‘ohen‘ () the spirit or ability to adapt one’s self to the change. What this means is in a condition where after understanding and acknowledging the natural tide of affairs (what has happened), all past ambitions (or goals) must be given up. In doing so one can reach the state of nothingness. This requires noble heart. It (nothingness) is the ultimate goal of fencing. We must meet the Allied Army with such a spirit. Yesterday they were our enemies, but today they are not. If we fail not to think of them as enemies, then it cannot be said that we (the Japanese) truly understand Bushido. If there is even the smallest feeling of ill will remaining in our hearts and if we cannot take a broader outlook, it will to show in our faces and attitude, giving reason for them (Allied soldiers) to think of us as cowardly. I am of the personal belief that the greatness of a nation lies in its open-mindedness.” The end of the war brought on many hardships. In an effort to pacify the Japanese people Japanese martial arts were banned. This brought Hakudo in cooperation with his compatriots to fight for the right to practice martial arts in Japan. Eventually through the help of Sasamori Junzo, Kuroda Yasuji, and Kunii Zenya the ban on martial arts as a whole was eventually lifted. Japanese could practice martial arts again. Hakudo’s victory brought about harsh realities however. Many of his most dedicated students died in the war, with even fewer of the surviving returned to train. Budo fell into decline. Hakudo felt a change was needed. Hakudo restructured Muso Shinden Ryu for the general populous. The attempt was to reduce the aggressive nature of the kata and emphasize the more spiritual side of the ryu. Certain aspects of the kata were changed to reflect this. Omori Ryu’s Gyakuto for example, pre-war ended with stabbing the teki in the back of the head. Hakudo later changed the stab into Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu’s todome, which was considered a more merciful coup de grâce. Hakudo demonstrating proper Nukitsuke Nakayama Hakudo (right), Hashimoto Toyo (left), HasegawaEishin Ryu: Oroshi (*Authors note* the Pre-War Gyakuto Todome was done far differently than what most iaido-ka do it today. The sword was raised high in the air and caught on the mune of the blade with the middle finger. Then after flattening the palm against back of the blade, it was thrust into the part of the head where the spine meets the skull [US. Marine Scout Snipers were taught to shoot the same spot]. The Yushinkan preserved this method). Hakudo did have several regrets. In his Kendo Koshutsujyu or Collection of Oral dictations on Kendo, Hakudo talked about his regret over a style he kept in secrecy from most of his students. The style of Hayashizaki Jinsuke Minamoto no Shigenobu. Hakudo intended all of his serious students to learn all of his arts. Only those students who pursued and progress in all of Hakudo’s arts had access to what Hakudo called Hayashizaki Hon Ryu () or the real teachings of Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu. According to Hakudo only nine people learned the first inner tier of the school; they were: Otuska Iwao (Menkyo) Hasegawa Minoshiro (Menkyo) Ohayashi Jungo (Menkyo) Sakonji Tadaichi (Menkyo) Nakayama Zendo (Menkyo) Aoki Eizou (Menkyo) Hashimoto Toyo (Menkyo) Mukuta Kozou (Menkyo) Suhara Sugematsu (Menkyo) Hakudo added that only four individuals surpassed them by learning all the kata and in effect achieving Menkyo Kaiden, their names were: Nakayama Zendo (Menkyo Kaiden) Hashimoto Toyo (Menkyo Kaiden) Mukuta Kozou (Menkyo Kaiden) Sakonji Tadaichi (Menkyo Kaiden) Hakudo said, it was his intention to teach the Hayashizaki Hon Ryu () school more, but by the end of the war he lacked the proper time and suitable candidates to do so. This is not to say that Hakudo did not foster or teach his other students. Less than a handful of outstanding students ever received any traditional ranking (ie. Densho) from Hakudo. The most notable of them were perhaps Matsuo Kenpu and Kimura Eijyu, who received Menkyo Kaiden in Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido (). The man called “The Last (True) Martial Artist” () died in 1958 at the age of eighty-five. Hakudo was survived by his son Nakayama Zendo to whom he passed all of his knowledge onto. Hakudo demonstrates the kata Junto CLICK HERE TO READ THE GLOSSARY OF TEACHERS AND INFLUENCERS Introduction There are few martial artists in history who have been able to influence an entire generation of politicians, military personnel, police, educators, and civilians alike. Who’s student’s (if only for a day) talked about their experiences with him in detail nearly seventy years after his death. The first San-Dou-no-Hanshi in history. The “God of Kendo” () Nakayama Hakudo. Nakayama Hakudo was arguably the most influential martial artist in modern history. Many instructors and students around the world claim to have some “connection” to him, having practiced some form or another of his Iaido. Yet, these same people (in Japan and abroad) know little more than his name. Only by looking at his humble origins, ambitions, accomplishments, and outlooks can we come closer to understanding the man and his styles. Nakayama Hakudo Second Generation Headmaster of the Yushinkan Dojo Second Generation Headmaster of Kanto Ha Shindo Munen Ryu Kenjutsu Creator of Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido and Nakayama no Jo KendoIaidoJodoSan-Dou-no-Hanshi Nakayama Otsuyoshi () was born in in Imae, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture in 1873, the eighth son of former Maeda clansman Nakayama Gennosho. At the age of five his family moved to Nakacho in Toyama where they opened a small yakitori restaurant located in East Sogawa Merchant Lane. The restaurant was located on the first avenue off of Main Street, and was a modest shop by most accounts. At age eight the young Otsuyoshi came to work in local inn (ryokan: a Japanese traditional inn) called “Toyama Hall” located just two streets over from his family’s yakitori shop. There in Toyama Hall he worked in the kitchen. As his luck would have it the manager of the inn, one Takazawa Toyoshi (a kind and loving man by all accounts) encouraged the young Otsuyoshi to pursue swordsmanship after seeing the eight year old playing with a bokken (wooden sword) fashioned from a tree branch. At age eleven he gained entrance to Saito Michinori’s dojo of the Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu school of swordsmanship in Hoshiicho off Sogawa Lane. The young Otsuyoshi had a busy schedule. In the morning he would travel to Nishi-jubucho where he learned how to read and write at the Ada Kanji Academy (a supplementary school). In the afternoon after school he would go to Michinori’s dojo where he to trained in Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu. He then went straight from the dojo to work at the “Toyama Hall.” Otsuyoshi progressed under his various teachers until a visitor from Tokyo changed his life forever. A swordsman of sizable skill by the name of Hosoda Kenzo took up residence in the “Toyama Hall”. Kenzo, an educator by trade was just transferred to Toyama by The Ministry of Education. He was a member of the Yushinkan Dojo (), a Shindo Munen Ryu school run by Negishi Shingoro. Highly impressed the young Otsuyoshi talked to Kenzo for hours. Kenzo’s stories and insights into swordsmanship left a great impression on the Otsuyoshi, ultimately shaping his entire life. In 1890 Kenzo handed in his letter of resignation to the Toyama school district and returned to Toyko. His departure left the young Otsuyoshi with many questions. Otsuyoshi felt it was time. He received permission from his family and employer to travel to Tokyo to pursue kenjutsu. Takazawa was kind enough to escort the young Otsuyoshi to Iwasehama, a small port in Toyama Prefecture. There Otsuyoshi boarded a ship to Naoetsu, Niigata Prefecture. At Naoetsu he boarded a steam ship that sailed to Ueno, Tokyo. It was there on the open Japanese Sea that Otsuyoshi, with the cold sea air on his face remembered the words of Takazawa: “Otsuyoshi, you’ll be a man who other men fall in love with“. These words stuck with Otsuyoshi well into his adulthood. Otsuyoshi arrived in Tokyo in 1891. There, armed with a letter of introduction from Kenzo, Otsuyoshi was successfully admitted into Shingoro’s Yushinkan at the age of eighteen. Otsuyoshi trained hard, changing his name to Hakudo () at age nineteen. Shingoro encouraged him to study other styles and literature. He tried his hand at various ryu, or schools, sleeping only four hours a day so that he could attend around five-six practices a day. Hakudo was not perfect, however and had several bad habits to overcome. In shiai geiko Hakudo’s hip rose every time before a strike, telegraphing his intentions to his opponent. In order to correct this Hakudo was forced to wear stones around his waist to improve his center of gravity. To learn to execute suri-ashi in a more effective way, Hakudo was made to wear geta (Japanese wooden sandals) with a loose thread. This allowed him to develop a type of scraping suri-ashi, making his movement harder to see. Hakudo’s intense dedication paid off and he rapidly advanced through the ranks. In 1906 he fought the bouts that came to define his early career as a swordsmen. At the Dai Nippon Butokusai Enbu Taikai he defeated Ozawa Jiro and Takano Shigeyoshi of the Hokushin Itto Ryu school, Koseki Kiyomasa of the Muhen Ryu school, and Sasaki Masanobu of the Suifu Ryu. At twenty three he received Jun-Menkyo and at twenty-seven was licensed Menkyo, Inkyo. At twenty-eight he was named Daihan or “Acting Headmaster” and was married to Shigoro’s daughter. Thus, Hakudo was adopted into the Negishi family (becoming Negishi Hakudo). In 1912 Shingoro elected Hakudo to take his place on the committee responsible for creating the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata. There were several problems, however and both Hakudo and his wife separated from the Negishi Family for personal reasons, rejoining the Hakudo Family. Hakudo then built his own dojo in Masagocho, Hongo ward (present day Bunkyo ward) and was given permission to use the Yushinkan name.

  • KODOKWAN ZAMBIA | Budokan World

    Introducing my son Daniel to his first lesson. A LITTLE MARTIAL ARTS HISTORY The fierceness of the Japanese warrior and his fighting arts have fascinated Westerners since the West came into contact with THEM more than 450 years ago. However it was not until the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries that Westerners actually started to practice any of the Japanese martial arts. JUJITSU was one of the first, perhaps even the very first-of these Arts to be taught in the West and it was not long before Kano Jigoro's new Art and Sport of JUDO begun rapidly to gain popularity in Japan and a number of JUJITSU practitioners, encouraged by their instructors, changed over to Kano's JUDO, which although based on older jujitsu schools basic methods was considered at the time a more "scientifically structured system". At the same time, other Western JUJITSU dojo's went their own way, incorporating Western ideas into their systems, and thus laying the foundations for some of the modern jujitsu styles seen today. Even some of the oldest dojo's in Europe were forced to change over to the more modern and popular judo, just to survive. This is what also happened to our Kodokwan dojo here in Zambia, which was formed in 1928. At the time of its formation it was the only dojo that practiced JUJITSU and then around the early 1940s our Kodokwan began to include formal judo practice in its dojo. The traditional SAMURAI JUJITSU schools of old taught not merely a defensive art, but the curricula comprised a very comprehensive range of tactics, equipping exponents to face a great variety of situations. This is in sharp contrast to the techniques used in modern day JUDO competitions, for example classical jujitsu techniques were not designed to score points, but to be effective for increasing one's chance of survival, allowing an opponent minimal opportunity to counterattack. The throws were applied in such a way that the combatant could break one or more limbs of an opponent before throwing him, usually after the opponent had been attacked with atemi or body strikes. When the opponent was flying through the air, he was suddenly jerked down in such a way that under optimal circumstances he would break his neck, or at least seriously injure his spine. There was no space for any mistake on the battle field when facing off an opponent engaged in COMBAT JUJITSU and there were no rules or prohibited techniques in battle. Samurai on the battle field engaged in "Yori Kumi-Uchi" [grappling] dressed in armor, required super-quick reflexes and the utmost self-confidence in their technique."Zanshin" was at its peak in this situation of survival, for even the slightest mistake, an off balanced posture or loss of concentration could result in death. Using Yori Kumi-Uchi was essential to effective grappling in armor, for through this the warrior developed the balance, leverage, and mobility with which both to preserve his position allowing him to then use Atemi or Kansetsu-waza to break a limb and throw his enemy to the ground, then draw his short blade and plunge it into his adversary. A special blade, "Yori-doshi", was worn on the right hip for this purpose. For obvious reasons these techniques are prohibited in the modern day sport of JUDO and even in modern JUJITSU. In JUDO, where the safety of one's partner in training or competition is a most important issue, throws such as "Ippon-seoi-nage"[one arm shoulder throw], are applied with the arm of Uke [recipient of the force) in the Junte position, for greater safety. An important characteristic of classical jujitsu is precisely that many throws are initiated with uke's arm in gyakute position . There are also some types of throws in CLASSICAL JUJITSU in which both of Uke's arms are locked in Gyakute position, making ot much more dangerous as it makes Ukemi, [defensive measures, like break-falling] more difficult, in fact when the techniques is executed correctly , ukemi becomes nearly impossible. Since the CLASSICAL MARTIAL ARTIST was not protected by rules in combat, he needed very thorough knowledge of escaping and using Ukemi to survive throws that were applied with the intention of maiming rather than scoring a point. However, one has to realize that when a throw is executed correctly, with the intention and speed to maim or even kill, Ukemi cam be very difficult. Therefore, if possible it was better to escape using many different techniques, just before being thrown, with some of these techniques being of a very extreme nature, even being prepared to sacrifice a hand or elbow or dislocate a shoulder, just to get away from being thrown, not like SPORT JUDO, where being thrown just means losing a point. Needless to say some JUJITAU RYUHA came to specialize in equipping exponents to escape throws just before the actions were initiated. In TRADITIONAL JUJITSU there was no such thing as a "prohibited move", Tactics that could be employed included were and are, - grappling (kumi) ,throw (nage), plus techniques for limiting the negative effect of a throw, restraint (osae), locking the joints(kansetsu-waza), chocking (shime- waza), attacking the vital points of the body (kyusho-waza), body strikes (atemi ), kicking (keri), thrusting (tsuki), and hitting (uchi)- I have had the honour and privilege of watching these Koryu-Ryha Sensei demonstrate their JUJITSU in Kyoto City , at the Kyoto-shi Koryu Bujitsu Enbukai [THE Kyoto City Traditional Martial Arts Demonstration Meeting), where various Koryu Bujitsu schools from all over Japan gather to demonstrate their skills. It is truly amazing to watch these old JUJITSU SENSEI throw each around, and doing ukemi on the hard pine wood floors, without Tatami mats! I even had the rare opportunity to train for a while under Sensei Arao 5th dan, of Tondabayashi, Osaka City, who at the time was over 60 years of age. SENSEI ARAO is a BUDO MASTER IN TOMIKI AIKIDO AND DAITO-RYU JUJITSU where he practiced at the Tennoji Aikikan in down town Osaka. Finally I would at this time like to also thank all the Sensei, Senpai and Kohai in Takatsuki-shi, Tondabayashi-shi Shimin Taiku-kan Budo Dojo in Osaka, for putting up with this "Zambian kara hen na no Gaijin" (strange foreigner from Zambia) for all those years. (c) Jonathan Kruger 22011 - Shihan Kodokwan Judo Jujitsu Zambia KODOKWAN DOJO ZAMBIA I started Judo and Jujitsu under my late father John Kruger 5th Dan Kodokwan Jujitsu and 2nd Judo IJF and Kancho Joe Grant Grierson 10th Dan Kodokwan Jujitsu and founder, Fr Jude McKenna 8th Dan Judo. And Hiromitsu Umino 2nd Dan Kodokan Judo and Toshinori Arao Sensei 5th Dan Aiki Jujitsu. I have been involved in Judo and Jujitsu for 35 years and spent seven years training in Osaka Japan while I worked there as a Christian missionary. I work with over a hundread students mainly from the underprivileged youth and orphans in our community here in Kitwe, Zambia Kodokwan Judo & Jujitsu Club On the banks of the Kafue River, Kitwe, Zambia PO BOX 22293, Kitwe, ZAMBIA. Africa. Jonathan Kruger, judojonathan1987@gmail.com Friar Jude McKenna 7th Dan with John Kruger 6th Dan The Kodokwan Judo Club girls Champions with Jonathan The entire club

  • DERRICK WRIDGWAY | Budokan World

    DERRICK WRIDGWAY DERRICK WRIDGWAY 5th Dan Shihan Budokan One of Doshu's earliest Disciples and strongest Budokan supporters of well over 50 years, started his Karate career in 1964 at one of Budokan South Africa's first dojo in the small town of Pinetown, Natal.
Under the guidance of Doshu and with dedicated training he in a short time proved he was to become a major player in Budokan SA and as Doshu once commented, "He was one of the finest technicians I ever trained". In the contest arena he proved himself by representing his Province of Natal on many occasions and winning the Shukokai Senior Kata Championship three years in a row. He eventually became a Senior Sensei within Budokan SA travelling and teaching full time in many of the dojo across the country. In a break from Karate he proved his determination to excel in whatever he undertook and completed the very challenging International "Two Oceans Road Marathon" which runs between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans around Cape Town and then he went on to complete in "two" of the World Famous Mega "Comrades Marathon", said to be one of the toughest road races in the world, both proud achievements.., Today he is working alongside his friend of a lifetime, Kyoshi David Passmore in the development of our BUDOKAN WORLD.

  • BUDOKAN LARNE | Budokan World

    BUDOKAN DOJO LARNE RUGBY CLUB 41 Main Road GLYNN BT40 3HF SENSEI IAN BATES 3 RD DAN sandan@ian-bates.ws Mobile 07864328873 Tuesdays from 7 pm Karate Aikido and Weapons BEGINNERS WELCOME I have always tried to follow the Budo method of training and teaching following on from my early days with Budokan UK in the Dojo based in Tunbridge Wells and of course Honbu in Crowborough as was, where I remember one night the temperature dropped to – 6 and I had to be lifted off the saddle of my Motorbike and held up for a few minutes until the blood returned to my legs, Sensei Passmore commented that I must be completely mad, But! Not so, as a some weeks later I was graded to Sankyu at Northhold Dojo, Commitment was in my mind then and still is!. I first saw Karate way back in the spring of 1973 on Tonbridge Castle lawn, I was excited by what I saw that day and wanted to find out more, I was 26 at that time, having been invited to try a couple of classes, I wanted to join in the ongoing journey!. Classes at that time where held all over the place and at that time we where training in what was known as “ The Satelite Club “ also in Tunbridge Wells.. This was to be a wonderful time as the floor in those days was made from Terrazo a sort of plastic; after some 30 minutes of training with gyaku-zuki and other warm up methods, the floor became a skating rink and we would skid to a stop at the other end of the hall. We had many moves of training location and finally landed at High Rocks for quite some time where I was to be awarded my first 3 grades over a period of 1 year, I tried never to miss a class. Northolt Dojo during a seminar was to be my first major grading test with many others of the day, where I was awarded my coveted Green Belt, I thought I had arrived!, Not so there was still plenty to fill the gap in my mind, this time of training was very important to me. I did have a time of no training due to work commitments and family commitments, this meant I could not attend training for quite some time. Some years later, I got back into training with Sensei Andy Fox ( 5th Dan ) in his Dojo at Borough Green village hall where I trained for 8 years, Then the biggest slap I have ever had came visiting, During one of my own classes located in Eynsford village where I was living at that time, I suffered a serious brain bleed an Aneurism that almost killed me, fortunately for me one of my students was a nurse, she thought I had, had a heart attack and called for the ambulance, Paramedics assessed me and told them what they thought had had happened, I did not feel anything and I have to this day got a whole in my mind of around 3 weeks, Taken to Dartford hospital and assessed before being taken to Kings Hospital where I was operated on to mend the damage, I remained in Kings for a week before being taken back to Dartford hospital for a further 3 weeks for close observation and monitoring as well as help to retain balance and co-ordination again. My wife Lorna and my old mate and my own Sensei during this time Andy Fox both spent a lot of time looking after me one way and another. It took 6 months for me to get back to the man I used to be and I put my life down to all the training I had done, my level of fitness and my Spirit of Aikido that was built into my mind over the past 30+ years, never give up and fight back with a passion for your life. All this took place during the month of October in the year of 2007, Carrying on until around April of the following year, when I felt as good as new again. I have included this event as it made me more aware of how fragile life can be. Never take the next day for granted, it’s not promised!, indeed never take the next martial arts class for granted, You may not make it. Most importantly of all are the seminars that are always on offer from your Sensei’s and other Senior Club and Association members, I have taken many memories from these over the past years, Because as your age increases there are more memories of the past, than there are days in front of you. Don’t cut yourself off from these special classes and events, You will never see that day again. I also trained with Sensei David Waters now the founder of Ryusui-Ryu Martial Arts Schools, where I remained for the next 20 years until I retired from full time work at 65 in November 2010 and moved to Larne in County Antrim where I now live with my wife Lorna, her home town. I always try to get back to England during these special events to meet up with old friends and to train with many of them again, usually followed by a time of an evenings social meal and drinks a plenty!. Come and visit me for a great time in the land of beauty, we have some nice B & B places or if you choose to take up the offer of a more Up-Market Curran Court Hotel, All will give you a great “Norn Ireland” welcome, Come and enjoy a great holiday as well as the offer of coming to join me on the mat for a couple of hours during one of my classes, If I am still able to run them!. During the following spring of 2011March and April I launched my own school here in Larne from scratch in our local sports centre, using some posters I had made up and standing and inviting potential new students to join me in the Dojo with a 4 weeks introductory course, It worked out quite well for me as “ a blow in!” as we are called! An Englishman in Ulster!, The culture here is very different from what I had been used to for the past 35+ years and it took me quite sometime to get a grip of both the mind set of the Northern Ireland people and of course understanding the way they spoke, I do not have any problems now thank goodness!. I have now been here for 10 years and hope to be able to teach my arts for a few years yet and now at 75 years young and slightly over weight, I may just be able to fulfil that dream. I also hope to be able to take the planned trip home to Kent during the spring of 2021 to meet up with “Old friends & teachers for a social meal and of course a bevvie or 3 and to train with those special people I first met back in the day!, 1973 and of course to make new friends with new students I have yet to meet,”. I hope this short bio helps cement links to many of my former fellow students what ever grade you hold, as well as to encourage new and younger students to stay focused in the most exciting journey you could hope to imagine, Stay the course and build great life long friends and great memories you will be glad you did. I hope to meet some of you before I retire to the great Dojo beyond the clouds.

  • BUDOKAN LLANGUNLLO | Budokan World

    THE VILLLAGE HALL LLANGUNLLO KNIGHTON LD7 1SW DOJO LEADER AND INSTRUCTOR KEITH MOLYNEUX 4 DAN SHIHAN +44 07450 847791 Disciplines KARATE - SHUKUKAI RYU KARATE SELF DEFENCE FOR WOMEN AIKIDO - TRADITIONAL IAADO - MUSO SHINDEN RYU MEDITATION Technical Director DAVID PASSMORE 7 DAN KYOSHI Chief Instructor KEITH MOLYNEUX 4 DAN SHIHAN OUR LINEAGE BUDOKAN LLANGUNLLO MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION BLACK BELT REGISTER CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT Dojo Leader KEITH MOLYNEUX 4 DAN SHIHAN I started my martial arts career to encourage my then 8 year old son to take up Karate. I was instantly hooked. Initially I trained Wado Ryu Karate with a focus on competition Kumite, as well as Urban Krav Maga. After a period of a couple of years I was approaching my 2nd kyu grading when a chance meeting with Sensei Passmore introduced me to Budokan. Budokan and Traditional Japanese Martial Arts have been a part of my life ever since. To this day it is still the only organisation that I have come across that includes Zazen in its syllabus, let alone 3 of the big traditional martial practices. Zazen and the philosophical aspects of traditional martial practices promote qualities that are sadly missing in the modern world, at a time when we can benefit the most from their study. In combination with hard physical training, we can more deeply understand ourselves and work towards becoming better human beings for the benefit of all those around us. I received my Shodan in 2011 under Sensei Passmore, Nidan in 2013, Sandan in 2015, Yondan in 2019, since my Shodan I have been attempting to fill the boots of each grade with hard work and humility. I have been a member of Budokan’s Shihankai for several years. During the Covid period I ran an outdoor Dojo in Bransgore prior to me moving away from the New Forest, Since then I ran a Dojo in Aymestrey near Leominster for a year and now I have a small Dojo in Llangunllo, which is open to all. The study of Traditional Japanese Martial Arts is a journey not a destination, The warrior virtues emanating throughout the practice will be with you for your entire life, despite the physical changes or limitations that age or injury my bring. Through dedication, discipline and good instruction we can achieve anything. Outside of Budokan I am an Electrical Designer specialising in explosive environments.

  • RESEARCH | Budokan World

    BUDOKAN BUDO RESEARCH Here we will publish schoLarly articles and academic papers from Aikido to Zen in all things Traditional Japanese Budo, that we hope will be of interest to both teacher and student alike. All articles and papers will first appear on the Homepage from 2 - 4 weeks. After that they will be posted on this page under the name of the discipline or context. When a single discipline reaches 12 or more articles or papers it will be given its own page. Just click on any of the links below to read more. (NB The views of the authors depicted in these articles and papers listed are for information purposes only) Kindly support the work we are doing by using the DONATE button below. AIKIDO JUJITSU BIOGRAPHY OF MORIHEI UESHIBA REDISCOVERING AIKIDO AIKIDO - A TOOL FOR LIVING AIKIDO AS SPIRITUAL PRACTICE IN US AIKIDO AND THE I A F KARATEDO A SHORT HISTORY OF KARATE INTENTIONALITY IN SHOTOKAN KARATE BUDO KATA - THE TRUE ESSENCE OF BUDO THE JAPANISATION OF KARATE LEG TECHNIQUES IN KARATE KARATE TALK IN A CANADIAN DOJO EASTERN MYSTICISM IN BUDO BUSHIDO A PHD SUBMISSION ON BUSHIDO KENDO THE CONCEPT OF KI IN KENDO IAIDO THE SWORDSMITHS OF JAPAN THE ALMOST FORGOTTEN LINEAGE NAKAYAMA HAKUDO KYUDO HISTORY OF KYUDO AND IAIDO IN EARLY JAPAN JUDO JIGORO KANO UTOPIA THE WAY OF KATA IN KODOKAN JUDO ZEN A BRIEF HISTORY OF ZEN ZEN, HEALTH & WELLBEING A JAPANESE GLOSSARY FOR KARATE STUDENTS First they published A Short History of Karate. Now Michael Cowie and Robert Dyson are soon to publish another little gem this year. Budokan has been given a glimpse of their work and you can too by clicking on the image below. And its not that little either! Enjoy. MISCELLANEOUS THE JAPANESE PURSUIT OF PERFORMATIVE MASTERY INTERESTING FACTS ON HISTORY OF MARTIAL ARTS SUMO - ANCIENT RITUAL TO THUNDER GOD TEA CULTURE OF JAPAN & CHINA MUSA CHUGYO - THE WARRIOR PILGRAMAGE BUFFER

  • SEISHIN | Budokan World

    1960 - 2021 JOE BRACONE 5th Dan Tenshinkan Karate, 3rd Dan Tenshinkan RyuKyu Kobujutsu joebracone@yahoo.com 07949713629 UK TENSHINKAN HISTORY AND LINEAGE BLACKRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL Main Street Bathgate West Lothian EH483RJ Wednesdays 1800-1900 hrs All groups COMBAT ZONE Bo'ness Recreation Centre Gauze Road, Bo'ness West Lothian EH51 9QB Every last Saturday, 1000-1200 hrs Advanced classes, check to confirm. BEGINNERS AND VISITORS WELCOME SEISHIN DOJO JOE BRACONE BIOGRAPHY Started studying Tenshinkan Karate in 2000 under the guidance of Hanshi Hans Haupt, Chief Liaison Officer for the Western World, in South Africa. In 2006, he participated to a 7 days international seminar in Hasuda-Shi (Japan) at the HQ of Tenshinkan Karate Federation, conducted by Kancho Mamoru Miwa. In 2006, he commenced studying kobujutsu with Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinkokai (Eisuke Akamine branch) led by Sensei Marius Madgwick in Boksburg. In 2009, Hanshi Hans Haupt personally trained him on Ryukyu Kobubujutsu Hozon Shinkokai (Inoue Motokatsu branch) and continued training under his guidance and under the Tenshinkan Ryukyu Kobujutsu standards, new and more attractive syllabus. In 2009 he was appointed Tenshinkan Benoni Honbu Dojo Deputy Chief Instructor and taught Karate and kobujutsu until he left South Africa in 2014. He attended international seminars held by Kancho Mamoru Miwa in Denmark and South Africa in 2013 and 2016 respectively. He published a book Karate for over 40, its benefits, he took part to numerous regional, national and international championships placing himself in the top 3 places in kumite and kata. He is a keen adept of Goshin-Jutsu and developed self-defence training for non-martial artists and introduced disarmament of firearms in their training. He provided many free self-defence seminars. He graduated Tenshinkan Karate 5th dan in 2017 in Dundee UK and given the title of Shihan Dai, He joined Budokan 2021 and, while he is still teaching Kobudo and Karate, he is writing a book about the application of the various Sabaki concepts in Tenshinkan karate. In January 2023 he was invited to join the Budokan Shihankai, assuming the title of Shihan. On 25 June 2023 he was accredited with his Rokudan Karate by the Budokan Shihankai for certification later in the year. FURTHER TRAINING NOTES I have practiced martial arts as a very young man but never got into it until I have gotten bored with just pushing weights and other gym activities. I finally joined Tenshinkan Karate when I was 40 and never looked back. I was fortunate enough to learn karate and later kobujutsu from Hanshi Hans Haupt 9th Dan Karate and 4th Dan Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinko Kai obtained with grand master Inoue Motokatsu and founder of Tenshinkan Ryukyu Kobujutsu). I left as South Africa Tenshinkan Honbu Dojo deputy Chief Instructor. I have gained national and provincial South African style colours for Kumite and Kata for many years and graded in Japan with Kancho Mamoru Miwa, Tenshinkan Karatedo Founder and avid Budo master. The disciplines I Teach: Tenshinkan Karate is an offshoot of Shotokan karate as was taught by Gichin Funakoshi. Master Gichin Funakoshi used to address Kancho Mamoru Miwa, then a young boy, “Tenshin” (the sincere one) hence the name of Tenshinkan. Tenshinkan Karate although retains very strong roots with Shotokan katas and stances it is a karate style focused on defense and attack with the inclusion of goshin-jutsu, self-defence, techniques such as grappling, joint locks and take downs. The style is very dynamic and effective, it is based and developed on different sabaki (evasion or avoidance) and multiple combination of footwork with blocking and striking techniques. Each grade or belt (Kyu) training and test is based on a syllabus that incorporates predefined karate and Goshin-jJtsu kata and techniques imparted through the application of specific training methods. Tenshinkan Ryukyu Kobujutsu was founded by Hanshi Hans Haupt to honour his Sensei. Both trained and graded with Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinko Kai Master Inoue Motokatsu, who in turn had trained with the RKHSK founder Taira Shinken. For each belt (kyu), the student learns the kata and basics techniques of attack and defence of each weapon that make up the martial art syllabus such as: Bo (six foot staff), Nunchaku (similar to a flail), Tekko (similar to knuckle dusters), Tonfa (similar to police baton), Kama (similar to a sickle), Sai (similar to a 16th century parring dagger) and Katana (famous Samurai’s sword). This a picture of the entrance to my home Dojo.

  • MEMBERSHIP INFO | Budokan World

    MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION HOW BUDOKAN WORK S Budokan exists as a constituted organisation since 1970 to promote the development of traditional Japanese Budo in the UK and Europe. See Lineage Budokan is responsible for the implementation of a teaching syllabus in the various Dojo or locations, where this syllabus is taught. Budokan confers the right of recognised and appointed instructors within each of these recognised Dojo to teach this syllabus as set down by David Passmore the Founder of Budokan UK. The disciplines taught are Aikido, Iaido, Karatedo and Zen - which means editation. Prospective students come to us for a variety of reasons, and every one of them is encouraged to come to any of our dojo to meet us and see what we do. It is here at this introductory meeting, that a class can be observed and questions can be answered. We explain how we work, our fee structure, how gradings are conducted and introduce you to some of the students present, so that p rospective students can get a “feel” for how things are done. Budokan reserves the right to reject any membership application made to it and further to reserve the right to discipline any member for unacceptable behaviour, in any way it deems appropriate. We have been in existence in the UK for 52 years and have never refused an application. Anyone interested in joining Budokan is encouraged to come for a few classes of practice and training, before a decision is made to become a member. Clothing in the form of a Gi is available for these classes to those who wish to take advantage of this offer, prior to buying their own. See Equipment Classes Each class is taught in such a way, so as to appeal to both the beginner and advanced student alike. Duration Each class lasts around one and a half hours. Eating Please ensure that meals are not taken at least 2 hours before undertaking any training. Membership The full annual membership fee is £50.00 and is payable during the month of January every year. The annual membership fee or part thereof (if joining later in the year) is payable 1 month after commencing classes. Membership Entitlements Classes in Traditional Japanese Budo Events, Seminars and Workshops take place at various times and locations each year. Budokan teaching and philosophy Kyu and Dan Grading Accreditation Entitles members to be graded according to the training schedule laid down by Budokan and to receive certification accordingly. See Certification Registration and recognition of Dan Grades and Titles by Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) - in Kyoto, Japan (There is a separate charge for this) Monthly Learning Fees Training takes place in the Dojo. Learning takes place online in our Library. These fees are not based on attendance at the Dojo only - as just as much learning is taking place online now, which can be accessed at any time and this trend will continue into the future. The learning fee is therefore based on content provided for training in the Dojo, complemented by content available online, including text, audio, pictures and video, only to those who pay this fee, who will have automatic access to the Library by unique password only. These fees are due on the first day of each month, and are variable from year to year. All fees are paid initially by bank transfer and then by Monthly Standing Order or Direct Debit We pride ourselves in trying to provide the very best tuition for all of our members at all times. GRADINGS AND RECOGNITION Budokan confers its grades and ranks onto its exponents of Japanese Budo disciplines that it teaches, in much the same way as the Classical Bujutsu Menkyo system operated and still found in some Ryu in Japan today. Gradings radings do not take place as a form of a test on a given day. Budokan “gradings” take place each and every time a student comes to train in the dojo by peer review, where things like attitude, respect, loyalty, courtesy, diligence, compassion and attendance are all closely observed. Grades are awarded annually duriing the last Workshop of each year and when required at courses such as Workshops that take place throughout each year. Kyu Grades - Mudansha - All ranks below Black Belt are awarded verbally and result in the student being recognised for the progress made up to Dan Grade rank. All students start out wearing a white belt, then move up to green belt and on to brown belt in recognition of the progress being made. At the appropriate time the student will be invited to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt one year in advance of taking this grading. Students who have had previous experience in Budo may be asked to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt, if approved of by the Shihankai or Senior Dan Grade members or officers of the Dojo. In the first instance, the training schedule is applied to four elements. Zanshin – literally translated as “the observation of the opponent or situation before, during and after the execution of the technique”. Waza – the technical ability in the performance of technique. It is part of Zanshin and includes posture, stance, strength, stamina and flexibility. Aite no keiko – Partner Practice. The ability to function with a partner incorporating Zanshin and Waza. Koko no keiko – Individual Practice. The ability to express Zanshin and Waza on one’s own. In the second instance the grading considers the individual’s:- attendance record contribution to the dojo personal character Dan Grades - Yudansaha All eligible Kyu grade students are allowed to take their Black Belt Dan Grades by invitation only under the same peer review process. Budokan will only award its coveted Black Belt in Budo to those who have accomplished an advanced level in Karate, Aikido and Iaido. Budokan only provides certification for Dan Grades and these certificates are awarded once a year at the annual end of year Workshop, which takes place in early December. Black Belt or Shodan certified students will be invited to wear the hakama as part of their dojo apparel, which makes them instantly recognisable as a Dan Grade. All Dan Grades are eligible to be registered with the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in Kyoto, Japan by discipline - as recommended by Budokan. There is a charge from the DNBK for this accreditation. Further guidelines for Dan Grade holders Dan means step. So holding a 1st Dan is simply the first step along the journey. It is the base camp and not the smmit of the mountain of a lifetime dedication to training, so often depicted as just that in the West. In Japan, it is simply a step from nothing to something on the lowest rung of the Dan Grade ladder. In Japan you will need to have the rank of Godan - 5 Dan - before you are recogised as having devoted many years to training. Recmmendation is based on years of training, skill prowess, accmplishments, dedication and service, teaching and instruction and excellence in personal character. SEE ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION . It is important that all students have the correct clothing and equipment in order to practice traditional Japanese Budo safely. Budokan adopts a "No Gi - No Training" rule. You will need a white Gi to practise - see below. You will not be allowed to practice without one. For the forst month of training Budokan can provide new members with a Gi to wear at no charge. Just let us know and we will arrange one for all new members without a Gi. After the first month, new members will be required to buy their own Gi. This equipment can be ordered through Budokan via Nine Circles - a UK based importer, who we recommend for all equipment for beginners and new students. We have a discount arrangement in place with them for our members. Please ask for further information. Click any of the three llinks below, to view the exact recommended items for all new members and beginners. CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT Aikido Gi - Intermediate 500g Sashiko Ori All these gi have been preshrunk - but on a hot wash and dryer - there is a little further shrinkage. Height Chart Feet/InchesCm Feet/InchesCm 5’ 2”1603 5’ 9”1805 5’ 4”1653.5 6’ 0”1855.5 5’ 55”1704 6’ 2”1906 5’ 7”1754.5 6’ 5”1956.5 Within the first three months all new members will need to buy a wooden sword (bokken) and staff (jo) for training purposes. Shiro Kashi White Oak Bokken 102cm Product Code Daito Includes Tsuba and Dome Shiro Kashi White Oak Jo Total length 127cm 2.5cm in diameter Product code – Jo Budokan is a member of the Nine Circles Giri discount scheme on mpst of their clothing and equipment. If yoiu are a member of Budokan and wish to benefit from discounts on offer - just email us and we will send y iou our username and passward. You can then buy direct. AFTER THE FIRST THREE YEARS MOST STUDENTS WILL WANT TO UPGRADE THEIR EQUIPMENT AND BUDOKAN WILL THEN RECOMMEND BUYING DIRECT FROM JAPAN FROM RELIABLE SOURCES KNOWN TO US.

  • ACCREDITATION | Budokan World

    ACCREDITATION This page will hold all of the information headings required for accreditation of Rank and Title. It is directed to the person or persons making the recommendation for an individual to receive a Dan Grade Rank such as a Dojo Leader or Chief Instructor. In the event that a Dojo Leader is being put forward for a Certificate of Rank, it will require the additional names of two referees acting in support of their recommendation. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF GRADE PLEASE USE THESE HEADINGS FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED NAME OF RECOMMENDER GRADE AND TITLE DISCIPLINE (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT GRADE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN RECOMMENDATION PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Consideration is given to each of the following : - grading record as above, years of continuous training, technical skill prowess, accomplishments, dedication and service, attitude, teaching and instruction, heart, values and excellence in personal character. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TITLE FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY RECOMMENDER WILL BE BUDOKAN IN ASSOCIATION WITH DOJO LEADERS NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT TITLE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN DOJO HISTORY TITLES AWARDED ACCOMPLISHMENTS RECOMMENDATION PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Titles are awarded to those who have made an outstanding personal contribution to the promotion and development of Traditional Japanese Budo, showing leadership in teaching and the maintenance of a high personal level of Budo skills over decades of continuous service.

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Saisho Sensei

First Teacher

最初の先生

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Strong in Hand, Kind in Heart

Kokoro ni Tsuyoi te

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